4 crucial questions to ask before taking hypertension drugs, according to a pharmacist
Here is what you need to know before filling out this prescription.
You probably already know that blood pressure drugs can keep your blood pressureat a healthy level- But you knowHow? 'Or' What they do that? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explain that the relaxation of your blood vessels, the decrease in water and salt levels in your blood and regulate the strength of your heart ratesome of the ways Blood pressure drugs help keep hypertension under control.
It's always a good idea to ask questions before starting any new prescription medication, and pharmacists "are always happy to answer any questions or concerns related to the drugs you may have, to make sure your medicines are effective and reduce the risk of side effects, "saidKatlyn Holt, Pharmd, clinical pharmacistand assistant speaker at the University of Toledo College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Read the rest for four crucial questions to ask your pharmacist before filling your prescription for blood pressure drugs.
Read this then:This is why your high blood pressure does not respond to drugs.
1 How does the drug work?
Have you ever spoken to your pharmacist how your medicines really work? This kind of knowledge is useful, not only to know what is going on in your body, but to help you decide the type of lifestyle that you need to make to optimize the effects of the drug.
For example, a type of medication aimed at treating hypertension is a class of drugs called diuretics. "Diuretics help the body get rid of excess sodium (salt) and water andHelp control blood pressure, "Explains the American Heart Association.
But ifYou take diuretics, It is important to know that they can reduce the supply of your potassium body and cause "symptoms such as weakness, leg cramps or be tired," said AHA. "Eating food containing potassium can help prevent significant loss of potassium." Potassium -rich foods include bananas, squash, beans, spinach and avocados - just to name just a few.
2 Does this medication have interactions?
"Before starting blood pressure medication or adding new blood pressure drugs, it is always important to check with your pharmacist for drug class duplications or interactions, including medicines you can buy over -the -counter, "advises Holt. This includes remedies like vitamins or otherTypes of supplements. Some foods may also present a problem.
Bethanne Brown, professor of pharmacy practice at the J.L. Winkle College of Pharmacy at the University of Cincinnati, told AARP that you should reduce the amount ofPotassium -rich foods in your diet if you areTake an ace inhibitor. "You can get high potassium levels in your body, which can cause potentially dangerous cardiac arrhythmias," said Brown.
3 How should I take the medication?
"High blood pressure drugs work better if you take them as your doctor has prescribed them," said Holt. And taking medication is not always as simple as remembering to swallow a tablet once or twice a day.
If you have not heard it directly with your doctor, ask your pharmacist the best way to take your prescriptions so that they also work - and also safely - as they can. Are they better taken in the morning or at night? If they areFood with food? What should you doIf you miss a dose?
For more health information sent directly to your reception box,Register for our daily newsletter.
4 What side effects should I be aware?
There are several different reasons for which you will want to know if the drug against the blood pressure you takePotential side effects. On the one hand, a sudden condition like nausea oran unexpected rash can be frightening. On the other hand, certain side effects of the drug are gentle and disappear for themselves - while others are dangerous or may require other drugs to control them.AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB
Although not everyone knowsSide effects According to a drug, "it is good to know which are the most common and which are more serious," explains Lifespan, who recommends you to ask your pharmacists the warning signs of an allergic reaction. "In this way, you can know when it's the bestTo call your doctor Or go to an urgent care institution, "advises the site.
Best Life offers the most recent information from high -level experts, new research and health agencies, but our content is not supposed to replace professional advice. Regarding the medication you take or any other health issue you have, always consult your health care provider directly.
